Factoring institutional racism into infant mortality

Institutional racism is a reason why African-American babies die at a higher rate than white children, according to a Marquette University Nursing Professor. Clinical Instructor Kelli Jones says we can’t be afraid to look at racism as a cause for the disparity.

Jones is lecturing today utilizing the “Lifecourse” approach. In speaking to industry colleagues at MU’s College of Nursing conference, she says the issue needs to be examined beyond the scope of just prenatal care.

“The majority of what I’m talking about is looking even deeper at before we even get to that point how can we reduce infant mortality?”

Jones advocates for long term health care – including Ob/Gyn – for women regardless of whether or not they are planning to get pregnant. However she cites inadequate Medicaid reimbursement is leading to doctors treating fewer low income patients.

African-American babies in Wisconsin are 3-to-4 times more likely to die before their first birthday than white infants.